A campaign to encourage people to speak openly about mental health issues is being supported by NHS Milton Keynes Commissioning Group (CCG).
Time to Talk Day, which takes place on Thursday 1 February, is a day that brings the nation together to get talking and break the silence around mental health problems.
We've compiled a list of places to get help in Milton Keynes here.
The winter months can be a very isolating period haunted by disappointment, anxiety, sadness, depression or even suicidal thoughts. At this time of year, we all need to talk more than ever.
Too many people with mental health problems are made to feel isolated, worthless and ashamed. Time to Talk Day is a chance for all of us to be more open about mental health – to talk, to listen, to change lives.
One in four people nationally will suffer with a mental health issue at some point in their lives and local doctors in Milton Keynes are keen to break down the stigma and discrimination that surrounds people with a mental illness.
Talking about mental health doesn’t need to be difficult, it can be as simple as making time to have a cup of tea or go for a walk and listening to someone talk about how they feel.
Being open about mental health and ready to listen can make a positive difference to someone’s life.
This is what Time to Talk Day is all about – giving everyone the chance to talk and listen about mental health. Whatever the hour, every conversation, every text, every share means more people are reached and more lives are changed. By starting a conversation it can make a difference.
Dr Nicola Smith, a local GP and Chair, at NHS Milton Keynes CCG, said: “It’s easy to think there’s no right place to talk about mental health. But the more we talk about it, the better life is for all of us. All too often people who are experiencing a mental health illness keep it to themselves, worried about what other people might think of them. But Time to Talk Day is a fantastic way of showing everyone that sometimes just talking with someone can really help.
“Being open to mental health doesn’t have to be awkward and being there for someone can make a huge difference to their life. Having a mental health problem is hard enough, but sometimes the isolation and stigma can make it even worse. Talking is an important part of our relationships. It can strengthen our ties with other people and help us stay in good mental health. And being listened to helps us feel that other people care about us and what we have to say.”
If you, a friend or relative is experiencing mental health problems or need urgent support, there are lots of places to go for help. The Samaritans can be reached on 116 123 (24 hours a day, free to call) or email: jo@samaritans.org. They provide confidential, non-judgmental emotional support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those that could lead to suicide. You can phone, email, write a letter or in most cases talk to someone face to face.
If you are supporting someone in a crisis and if the person seems really unwell, and you are worried about their safety, you should encourage them to seek help. There is information on NHS Choices
